EU continues support for peace and development in South

PAGADIAN CITY – The European Union (EU) continues to support the government’s peace and development efforts in the southern Philippines, especially the welfare of children.

It also supported the nongovernmental organization Save the Children Philippines in the launching recently of SENANG of the “Supporting an Enabling Atmosphere for children and youth Network for peacebuilding Goals.”

The project will be implemented within the next three years in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, including urban and rural areas from Muslim dominant conflict-affected communities in the country.

SENANG’s primary objective is to ensure that 80,000 children and youth in Mindanao will live in a peaceful environment. To do this, the project will contribute in preventing human-induced conflicts, respond to crises, foster children and youth’s meaningful participation on social cohesion, provide opportunities for intergenerational, intercultural, and interreligious dialogues, create safe and neutral spaces, and promotion of peace and tolerance through arts and culture.

“The EU is a reliable, trusted and neutral partner supporting peace and development in Mindanao,” said Frederic Grillet, First Secretary, Political, Press and Information section of the EU Delegation to the Philippines. 

“This meaningful project aligns and supports the existing peace efforts and initiatives of the government and other relevant agencies whose aims are to prevent conflict, respond to crisis and build peace, reflecting how the key roles of children and young people play in the achievement of a peaceful society,” he added.

Lawyer Alberto Muyot, CEO of Save the Children Philippines, thanked the EU for its continued support and commitment in peace building.

“We continue our commitment to seek durable solutions and bridge the humanitarian-peace-justice and development nexus. Peace education and inclusive spaces of children and youth participation are our key approaches that will drive our goal to provide a fair and equal world for and with children,” Muyot said.

“We enjoin everyone to journey with us in positively transforming the lives of children and youth in Mindanao, including their families and communities, and help build a sustainable future for the next generation.” (Mindanao Examiner)